Up U.P. and Away

Up U.P. and Away

Toronto’s Evyn Santiago recruited to UP Maroons

By Emar Sy

Another Filipino Canadian basketball player has received and accepted a full athletic scholarship offer from a top notch university in the Philippines.

Evyn Santiago, a Toronto native, is a veteran campaigner in the last two SM NBTC under Team Canada Crossover of Coach Mike Cruz. In his last stint he was selected to play at the All Star Game against the top high school players in the Philippines.

During this campaign he has caught the eyes of most of the local coaches because of his long range shooting capabilities and athleticism. With this he has received interest from the University of Santo Tomas and Far Eastern University and received formal offers from San Beda College, Arellano University and University of the Philippines.

And after deep consultation with his family and friends he decided to accept the offer from the University of the Philippines of Coach Bo Perasol. Coach Bo mentions that Santiago will be great addition to his team because of his length and shooting capabilities. He plans to make Santiago the sniper for the UP Fighting Maroons in their UAAP campaign this season which will start in September.

Evyn with UP Maroon
coaches Ricky Dandan, Coach Bo and Crossover Sports Canada Mike Cruz

Santiago flew to the Philippines last July 11 and now in the States with the UP Maroons for a two weeks training at the renowned Impact Basketball in L.A.

UAAP is one of the most prestigious collegiate basketball in the Philippines. It is where most future PBA players hone their skills and talent before going professional. Its member universities include Ateneo de Manila, De La Salle, University of Santo Tomas, Far Eastern University, National University, University of the East and the University of the Philippines.

Santiago’s journey was made possible through the efforts of Crossover Sports Canada and its supporters. Crossover Sports Canada is a player management company that helps Fil-Can players find playing opportunities in the Philippines. It’s grassroots program through Durham Crossover that helps train kids at a very young age. Partnership with the Filipino Basketball League provides healthy and friendly competition for local ball clubs in Canada.

From all of us here in Canada we would like to congratulate Evyn on this wonderful opportunity and wish him all the best. And just like my favourite super hero may you continue to soar high up U.P and away!

(PRESS RELEASE)

Evyn was selected to play for the SM NBTC All Star Game (Photos provided)